The centre-left party was a key factor in keeping Paul Martin's minority government running since June 2004. Its withdrawal of that support last year led to the Liberals' downfall.

    With 10 more parliament seats this time, the NDP is seen as the most likely to cope with Stephen Harper and thus a major balancing power.

    Analysts have pointed out that the new Tory minority government may be short-lived as it has little common ground with any of three other opposition parties.

    But Jack Layton indicated at a news conference Tuesday in Toronto he is ready to work with the Tories, saying the two have the common goal of improving the living standard of working people.

    He vowed to defend public health care, create positive opportunities for young people and protect the integrity of senior citizens.

    As to how long he believes another minority government could last, Layton said it could hold on for months or years if it is willing to negotiate.

    The Conservatives led by Stephen Harper defeated ruling Liberals in Monday's general election by winning 124 seats, ending a 12-year Liberal rule.

    The centrist Liberals got 103 seats, followed by separatist Bloc Quebecois with 51 seats and NDP with 29 seats. Enditem